Art as a Way of Life: Interview With Jesus Ortiz

Artists that find their medium of expression generally feel liberated, as they’re free to do what they love. This is certainly the case for Jesus Ortiz, who keeps up an Instagram account that is reflective of his creative pursuits. Doodles and objects go hand in hand to illustrate little scenarios that are fun and simply a pleasure to observe.

Sometimes witty and funny, Jesus’s art is about daydreaming and exploring all the while pushing personal limits in creativity and imagination. For Jesus, expression in this sense is essential and today he shares with us his story, his journey with art and his successful project.

Jesus, tell us little bit about yourself and your creative journey.

My name is Jesus, although I like more my nickname “Jesuso”, which many friends have used affectionately for years.

I liked art from a very young age. I always remember myself surrounded by colored pencils and notebooks with drawings.

Where do you draw inspiration, and how are the ideas for your Instagram images conceived?

Inspiration usually comes unexpectedly and can arise from anything. Casually one day taking a walk on the beach, or just down the street when going to make a purchase. Anything can be inspiring, you just have to be constantly attentive.

Fruits, flowers and plants are very popular because they offer fun shapes and cheerful colors.

Do you collaborate with other brands and if which ones would you collaborate with in the future if you had the choice?

I have worked with some brands, although I am quite selective when it comes to working with brands. I have rejected many proposals because they do not go with my style, or because I do not go with their style.

They offered me all the freedom I’d like to have.

I have not thought about specific brands, I just like that they respect my work and give me freedom when it comes to work.

A post shared by Jesuso (@jesuso_ortiz) on Aug 26, 2015 at 11:04am PDT

Your first few photographs of your work are very different in comparison to the newer ones. How would you say your style has changed?

As I told you in the first few questions, I started doing minimalist photos. At first I thought that Instagram was only for photography, I did not know it could be used to publish more creative works such as montages and illustrations.

Little by little, I discovered other accounts in which other techniques were used, so I started to introduce other elements, that’s how I was changing.

Do you have any tips for fellow creatives about starting their own projects?

The only thing that occurs to me is that they should experiment without fear and without pretense. The most important thing is to enjoy and do things from the heart, everything else will come naturally.

Thank you for subscribing to our blog!

Comments

Sandra Iakovleva

Sandra is a former student at the University of Arts London with a distinctive passion for art and design. Currently a writer and editor at Depositphotos covering all the latest topics on photography, design and marketing.